In an era where cyber threats evolve with alarming sophistication, Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) turn to crisis simulations with unprecedented zeal. As we delve into 2025, the focus on these simulations has been catapulted by high-profile cyber incidents, pushing security leaders to not only prepare but anticipate crises in unimaginable ways.

The Catalyst for Change

The year 2024 was marked by several cyberattacks that shook the foundations of cybersecurity practices. Incidents at institutions like the NHS and CrowdStrike, coupled with a faulty update from CrowdStrike that led to widespread system failures, underscored the urgent need for robust crisis management. Hack The Box‘s survey, which revealed that 74% of CISOs plan to increase their crisis simulation budgets in 2025, reflects a recognition across the industry that simulation is not just preparation—it’s a necessity.

The New Normal in Cybersecurity

CISOs now view crisis simulations as their top priority for 2025, with a significant 73% considering cyber incident live drills essential for business resilience. This shift is about responding to past threats and preempting future ones. The consensus among security leaders, as seen in posts on X, is clear: simulations are crucial for understanding the chaos of a cyberattack in a controlled environment, allowing teams to refine their response strategies without the real-world stakes.

Realistic and Actionable Simulations

There’s a growing demand for simulations that aren’t just theoretical exercises but are grounded in real-world scenarios. A notable 77% of CISOs would be more inclined to invest in simulations if they were more realistic and actionable, highlighting the need for simulations that mimic the complexity and unpredictability of actual cyber incidents (). This demand has led to innovations in simulation technology, where AI is being leveraged to create more dynamic and adaptive scenarios that evolve based on the actions taken by the participants.

The Role of AI in Simulations

Integrating AI into crisis simulations transforms how these exercises are conducted. AI can simulate various attack vectors, from ransomware to supply chain attacks, providing a comprehensive learning environment. This technology allows simulations that adapt in real-time to the defenders’ strategies, offering new challenges and learning opportunities that static simulations cannot (trending on X).

Beyond the Simulation: Learning and Adaptation

Post-simulation analysis has become as critical as the simulation itself. The insights gained are invaluable, offering lessons on everything from communication breakdowns to the effectiveness of incident response plans. This analysis phase is where the actual value of crisis simulations is extracted, turning theoretical exercises into actionable intelligence for real-world application.

Industry Voices

Industry experts and CISOs share a common sentiment on platforms like X: the future of cybersecurity resilience lies in how well organizations can simulate, learn, and adapt from these simulations. From discussions on the necessity of integrating crisis simulations into annual security budgets to the benefits of cross-departmental participation in these drills, the narrative is clear—crisis simulations are no longer an optional training element but a core component of cybersecurity strategy.

Building a Culture of Resilience

As we move into 2025, the emphasis on crisis simulation by CISOs is not just about compliance or checking off a security list. It’s about building a culture of resilience where organizations are not just surviving cyber incidents but are prepared to thrive despite them. This proactive approach, underpinned by advanced technology and a commitment to continuous learning, sets a new standard for being secure in the digital age. The message from the cybersecurity community is clear: in the face of evolving threats, simulation is the latest preparation.